Traveling for work is a privilege I cherish, although it often limits my opportunities to explore the cities I visit. During a recent one-day trip to Dallas, I was fortunate to attend a conference at the historic Statler Hotel, located in downtown Dallas. I arrived early in the morning on a Southwest flight to Love Field, which is just a short fifteen-minute drive to the hotel. The conference was organized by the Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter of Meeting Professionals International, providing a valuable educational experience.
The Statler Hotel, which opened in 1956, is America’s first modern hotel and stands as a testament to midcentury architectural design. As the last hotel constructed by the Statler Hotels chain before its acquisition by Hilton, it marked a significant development in the area, being the first major hotel built in nearly thirty years. The hotel boasted the largest convention space in the South at that time, featuring a grand ballroom capable of accommodating up to 2,200 guests. Designed by architect William B. Tabler, the 19-story Y-shaped structure utilized groundbreaking construction methods, including a cantilevered reinforced flat-slab system and a sleek curtain wall of glass and porcelain-coated metal panels, solidifying its role in the Modern movement in Dallas.
The Statler introduced numerous innovations to the hospitality industry, such as elevator music, custom 21-inch Westinghouse televisions in every room, and a rooftop heliport for convenient airport transfers. Over the years, it has hosted numerous celebrities, including Audrey Hepburn, and has served as a central venue for various social, political, and charitable events, making it a significant landmark in the city.
I had the pleasure of immersing myself in the historic and architectural splendor of the hotel throughout the day. My lunch took place in the ballroom, a venue that has hosted numerous musical legends. Notably, on July 1, 1976, Tina Turner made the pivotal decision to leave Ike while on tour in Dallas, departing with only 36 cents and a Mobil gas card as she fled into the night, leaving behind her old life.
After completing my classes, I attended a delightful reception at the rooftop pool, Waterproof, located on the Statler’s 19th floor. This stylish indoor/outdoor venue offers breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Dallas. Following the reception, I had time to explore the hotel’s other entertainment options. Scout, an expansive restaurant and entertainment venue, features bowling, billiards, and sports on large screens. However, my favorite was the Speakeasy Bourbon and Banter, accessed through a vintage phone booth that once served as the hotel’s barber shop. This sophisticated underground lounge offers innovative cocktails and an extensive bourbon selection, providing a perfect speakeasy retreat in Dallas. It was a splendid conclusion to a long day.
I capped off a lengthy yet enjoyable day in Dallas with a late-night flight back to New Orleans. For anyone seeking a quick weekend escape to the Big D, the Statler is an excellent choice for accommodation.
